An awkward incident unfolded at the one-week observation of Regina Wiafe Antwi, sister of former Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, on September 30, 2026. Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, former Education Minister and MP for Bosomtwe, appeared to deliberately bypass the outstretched hand of Odeneho Kwaku Appiah, popularly known as COKA, the newly elected NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman. The incident was caught on camera by popular Ghanaian blogger Gists Online and has since gone viral on social media.
The one-week observation was held under a red and orange canopy tent with mourners dressed in black and dark traditional cloth. The gathering drew prominent NPP figures, including former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia. Regina Wiafe Antwi, sister of Chairman Wontumi, recently died after a reported short illness. Her brother, Chairman Wontumi, is currently serving a 20-year jail sentence at the Nsawam Prison.
Footage captured by Gists Online showed Dr Adutwum arriving alongside Dr Bawumia and others at the ceremony. As the group made their way through the formal greeting line, Adutwum visibly skipped past Chairman COKA without acknowledging his hand, in full view of those gathered. The video spread quickly online, with many viewers picking apart the brief but pointed moment.
The incident drew sharp responses from social media users, many of whom were unimpressed with the former minister's conduct. Several users expressed their disappointment and surprise at Dr Adutwum's behavior, with some describing it as childish. The reactions sparked a heated debate on social media, with many Ghanaians weighing in on the incident.
The gathering was a solemn occasion, with mourners gathered to pay their respects to Regina Wiafe Antwi. The presence of prominent NPP figures, including Dr Bawumia, underscored the significance of the event. However, Dr Adutwum's actions appeared to overshadow the occasion, with many viewers focusing on the awkward moment rather than the purpose of the gathering.
The incident has raised questions about the relationships within the NPP, particularly between Dr Adutwum and COKA. While the reasons behind Dr Adutwum's actions are unclear, the incident has sparked speculation about potential tensions within the party. The NPP has not officially commented on the incident, but it has generated significant interest and debate on social media.
Dr Adutwum's snub of COKA's handshake has sparked a wider conversation about etiquette and behavior in Ghanaian politics. The incident has highlighted the scrutiny that politicians face, particularly in public gatherings. As the NPP continues to navigate its internal dynamics, the incident has provided a notable example of the complexities and nuances of Ghanaian politics.
Key points
- Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum snubbed COKA's handshake at the one-week observation of Regina Wiafe Antwi.
- The incident was caught on camera and has gone viral on social media.
- The snub has sparked speculation about potential tensions within the NPP.
